Sen. Bob Menendez re-elected to third term, defeating Hugin

<p>Sen. Bob Menendez is headed back to Washington after winning his third term.</p>

News 12 Staff

Nov 7, 2018, 3:25 PM

Updated 2,005 days ago

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Sen. Bob Menendez is headed back to Washington after winning his third term.
Menendez won 53 percent of the vote, by more than a quarter million votes over Bob Hugin.
In his victory speech, Menendez thanked his supporters and the state leaders who helped in his campaign.
He told the crowd he would continue to oppose many of President Donald Trump's controversial policies and stand up for the state of New Jersey.
He also made reference to the possibility of Sen. Cory Booker possibly running for higher office in 2020.
"I'm grateful that the junior senator came to his senior partner's aid because, brother, I'm never gonna forget it,” says Menendez. “Now I am told he may be really busy soon. Well, Corey everyone in this room is ready to get onboard and make sure that happens."
Bob Hugin conceded around last night around 10 p.m.
He was joined by his wife and daughter at the podium in front of a group of supporters, volunteers and staff.?
Hugin told the crowd he was proud of what they had accomplished and proud he has kept his integrity intact throughout the campaign.?
He also said while New Jersey chose Bob Menendez to keep his seat, Jerseyans deserve more.
"I don't want to rehash the election,” says Hugin. “The guy won right. I live my life with integrity and honor. Everything I ever done. I'm proud of what I've done with my life. “I had the opportunity to meet so many people around the state. The people of New Jersey are great people. Great people. They deserve better than what they're getting."
Hugin, a former pharmaceutical executive, used millions of his own money in the campaign.
Many supporters hope he will consider a run for governor next.
This was his first political campaign.


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